High Country Chapter of ABATE of AZ held its 17th Annual Barbie Hensler Memorial Toy Run on Saturday, December 14, 2019 at the Buffalo Bar & Grill in Payson Arizona. With lots of help and support from the Rim Country District of the Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona, the event was another huge success for Rim Country children and families in need this Christmas season.
No child should have to go without during Christmas and it is High Country Chapter’s mission, in conjunction with the Women of The Moose, to make sure they have a happy Christmas, no matter their family’s circumstances.
The toy collection party started promptly at 11 am with the arrival of the first toy collection boxes that had been distributed throughout Rim Country. During the previous month, supporting businesses, from Tonto Village to Strawberry had been collecting new toys, clothes and other gifts for children and their families for ages ranging from toddler to teenager.
Mike McCannon, owner of the Buffalo Bar & Grill, was a gracious host and made sure the beer was cold, the chicken wings were hot, and the food was delicious! It seemed like everyone was having a really fun time.
Music was provided by KRIM-FM DJ Chris Higgins who generously donated their normal fee back to the kids. There was also a silent auction and raffles, and door prizes to delight the patrons.
The annual event also featured a 50/50 and congratulations go to Bartender Lesley for winning $505.00. Thanks to everyone that made the 50/50 such an enormous success, and in particular ABATE of AZ State Sgt. at Arms Lee Thompson who sold over $1,000 worth for tickets by himself!
At the end of the day, 5 pickup trucks loaded with toys, bicycles and other gifts, plus checks totaling $3,500.00 were presented to the Women of the Moose, Moose Lodge #852 in Star Valley, who will be distributing the toys and other gifts to a vetted list of children and families in need. That list currently has 141 children and 37 families!
High Country Chapter of ABATE of AZ, and Rim Country District of the MMA of AZ, wants to express their gratitude for the continuing, significant, support from Sawmill Theaters, Miller Auto Works, Ironhorse Signs, Cheaper Sweeper, and the Old Bastards Motorcycle Club.
They also want to thank Punkin Center Bar & Grill, Jake’s Corner Bar, KRIM-FM, The Buffalo Bar & Grill, El Rancho Restaurant, Tonto Rim Bar & Grill, Payson Wireless, Old County Inn, Pine Creek Fudge & Espresso, Pinewood Tavern, and the Ponderosa Market for hosting toy collection boxes.
And finally, a special thank you to Joanne McConnell of That Apron Shop, Susan Irons, Cindy Condit, Barbara Huber, Nancy Hubbs, Roger and Laura Ferguson, and the members of Yavapai Chapter of ABATE of AZ, and “Toys For Tots” in Payson that provided invaluable support to this event.
Merry Christmas to one and ALL!
Link to PHOTOS